Should I Play Splendor?

Is Splendor fun to play?
Splendor

Players: 2 – 4 players | Game Duration 20 – 40 mins |
Min. Age 10+ | Game complexity: EASY Genre: Card Games, Economy / Industry, Historical
Solo game mode: No | Co-op: No |
Online Version: Yes

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Hate Rulebooks? Check out our condensed How to Play Splendor Rules Guide

What is Splendor about?

Splendor, a captivating and elegant board game known for its simple yet deep mechanics, it appeals to both casual players and seasoned strategists alike.

Gameplay Overview 

Players assume the roles of Renaissance merchants striving to amass the most prestigious collection of gems and noble patrons. The game is designed for 2-4 players and typically takes about 30 minutes to play.

Game Mechanics

The core mechanics of Splendor are straightforward yet engaging:

  • Gem Collection: Players collect gem tokens in five colors and gold (wild) tokens.
  • Card Purchasing: Gem tokens are used to purchase development cards, which provide permanent gem bonuses and occasionally victory points.
  • Noble Tiles: Players can attract nobles by meeting specific gem requirements, earning additional victory points.
  • Engine Building: As players accumulate cards, they build a resource engine, allowing them to buy more expensive cards without needing as many tokens.

What Makes Splendor Fun

  1. Simplicity: Splendor’s rules are easy to learn, but the strategic depth keeps players coming back. 
  2. Replayability: With variable setups and the need to adapt to opponents’ strategies, each game of Splendor feels fresh and challenging.
  3. Quick Playtime

Who Will Enjoy Splendor:

  • Casual Gamers: Its easy-to-understand rules and quick setup make it accessible to newcomers and families.
  • Strategic Thinkers: The depth of strategy in card acquisition and resource management appeals to those who enjoy planning and optimization.
  • Competitive Players: The indirect competition of racing to achieve nobles and high-value cards creates a compelling dynamic for those who enjoy outmaneuvering opponents.

Rules

Condensed How to Play Splendor Rules Guide for rulebook haters
Official Splendor Rulebook

Where to play Splendor online?

Link 1

Splendor Videos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2A0CQ0xsrv0s

Awards Won by Splendor

2016 MinD-Spielepreis Short Game Winner
2016 MinD-Spielepreis Short Game Nominee
2015 Origins Awards Best Card Game Nominee
2015 Nederlandse Spellenprijs Best Family Game Winner
2015 Nederlandse Spellenprijs Best Family Game Nominee
2015 Hungarian Board Game Award Nominee
2015 Hra roku Winner
2015 Guldbrikken Best Family Game Winner
2015 Guldbrikken Best Family Game Nominee
2015 Gra Roku Game of the Year Winner
2015 Gra Roku Game of the Year Nominee
2015 Gioco dell’Anno Nominee
2015 As d’Or – Jeu de l’Année Nominee
2015 Årets Spill Best Family Game Winner
2015 Årets Spill Best Family Game Nominee
2014 Vuoden Peli Adult Game of the Year Nominee
2014 Vuoden Peli Adult Game of the Year
2014 UK Games Expo Best New Boardgame Winner
2014 Tric Trac Nominee
2014 Tric Trac de Bronze
2014 Spiel des Jahres Nominee
2014 Meeples’ Choice Winner
2014 Meeples’ Choice Nominee
2014 Lys Grand Public Finalist
2014 Juego del Año Recommended
2014 Jocul Anului în România Beginners Finalist
2014 Japan Boardgame Prize Voters’ Selection Winner
2014 Japan Boardgame Prize U-more Award Nominee
2014 Golden Geek Board Game of the Year Winner
2014 Golden Geek Board Game of the Year Nominee
2014 Golden Geek Best Family Board Game Winner
2014 Golden Geek Best Family Board Game Nominee
2014 Golden Geek Best Board Game Artwork & Presentation Nominee
2014 Board Game Quest Awards Best Family Game Winner
2014 Board Game Quest Awards Best Family Game Nominee


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